Costa Slow Cruise Expands, Sees The Light

On the heels of a $28.1 million restyling Costa Cruises‘ 53,000-ton Costa Classica has joined the Costa neoCollection as Costa neoClassica . Together with Costa neoRomantica and Costa neoRiviera, the refurbished ship will offer itineraries in the Costa slow cruise style, featuring cruises to unique destinations with long and overnight stays allowing relaxed exploration of natural and cultural attractions.


713mmrofsQL._SL1500_Complete Makeover-
Public areas and the 654 cabins were totally renovated with new interiors in luminous colors by Partner Ship Design to match the mood and elegance of the more intimate Costa neoCollection ships.   In their cabins, guests can taste authentic espresso thanks to a personal Illy brand coffee pod machine, and pampering Elemis beauty products and amenities are provided as well. Suite balconies received new furniture so guests can enjoy the view of the sea in total comfort.

Costa Dining - 19

‘Italy’s Finest’ Culinary Focus Updated-
The Restaurant Tivoli has tables for two and four guests to guarantee flexible Costa slow cruise dining options, including a brunch during sea days. A wide selection of food and wine will be available on Costa neoClassica. Whether on a special culinary tour ashore or onboard, guests can enjoy local gastronomic traditions based on wholesome ingredients available in various ports of call. The menus in the restaurants showcase regional recipes designed to foster local culinary and cultural traditions, thanks to the collaboration between the cruise line and the Università delle Scienze Gastronomiche in Pollenzo, Italy.

The Al Fresco café is a green retreat at sea with a partial roof decorated with trees that creates a peaceful, open-air space with an outdoor area like a balcony on the sea. The Foyer Bar, serving Ferrari sparkling wines, is the ideal location for an indoor aperitif, whereas at the Dolce Amore Bar guests can enjoy coffee specialties from around the world during the day and order pizza in the evening. On sunny days guests will appreciate the renovated “lounge” style of the open deck by the pool, while on warm summer nights they are protected by a wooden roof.

Costa Luminosa - 19Unique Experiences-
Costa neoClassica also offers the “Stargazer” experience, an original Costa neoCollection entertainment activity that allows guests to admire the skies through high-quality telescopes with the assistance of Costa astronomy experts.

The Wellness Facility was refurbished with a new TRX area for Total Body Resistance Exercises and training classes.

Just like the other Costa neoCollection ships, Costa neoClassica has a professional concierge onboard who advises guests on the best services and activities shipboard and ashore. Guests also can get information about and book all available shore excursions through the new kiosks onboard, just like on on the new Costa Cruises flagship, Costa Diadema.


Costa Ship Shots - 007Sustainability Efforts Adding Up

Costa Cruises, like most major cruise lines, are making ongoing efforts toward more sustainable operations.  In line with that focus, more than 300,000 light fittings are being replaced across 10 ships with the projects that guarantee energy savings of up to 80 percent and a resulting huge reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. To make that happen, Costa Cruises is switching to energy-efficient LED technology as the latest step toward the company’s goal of slashing emissions.

As well as securing this major energy achievement, the LEDs emit excellent quality white light, resembling natural sunlight, that does not irritate or tire the eyes, while providing instant, maximum-intensity light with fittings that stay at room temperature. The installed lighting solutions provide a brighter environment and create a more welcoming and relaxing atmosphere than the previous halogen bulbs.

 

Costa Magica - 03About Costa Cruises:
Costa Cruises is Europe’s number-one cruise company. For more than 66 years its ships have plied the seas of the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine. Its fleet, the largest in Europe, has 15 ships in service, including its new flagship — Costa Diadema.www.costacruise.com
Costa neoClassica‘s renovation began at San Giorgio del Porto yards in Genoa, Italy, Nov. 8, and involved about 600 technicians and 400 crewmembers. Extensive work included the hull, engine section and hotel areas.